offensive

The definition of offensive is something likely to invoke feelings of hurt, anger, disgust, disapproval or revulsion, or is something associated with an aggressive attack.

(adjective)

  1. Calling someone an idiot is an example of a comment that would be described as offensive.
  2. Making a plan to attack a country is an example of planning an offensive attack.

Offensive is an organized campaign or plan of action, normally created by the military or created to achieve some specific political aim or goal.

(noun)

  1. A military plan to attack is an example of a military offensive.
  2. A plan to fight the war on drugs is an example of an offensive.

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See offensive in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

  1. attacking; aggressive
  2. of or for attack
  3. ☆ designating or of the side that is seeking to score in any contest
  4. unpleasant, as to the senses; disgusting; repugnant: an offensive odor
  5. causing resentment, anger, etc.; insulting

Origin: ML offensivus < L offensa, offense

noun

  1. attitude or position of attack: often with the
  2. an attack or hostile action, esp. by armed forces

Related Forms:

See offensive in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective
  1. Disagreeable to the senses: an offensive odor.
  2. Causing anger, displeasure, resentment, or affront: an offensive gesture.
  3. a. Making an attack: The offensive troops gained ground quickly.
    b. Of, relating to, or designed for attack: offensive weapons.
  4. (ŏfˈĕn-) Sports Of or relating to a team having possession of a ball or puck: the offensive line.
noun
  1. An attitude or position of attack: go on the offensive in chess.
  2. An attack or assault: led a massive military offensive.

Related Forms:

  • of·fenˈsive·ly adverb
  • of·fenˈsive·ness noun

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